Russell was born to Irwin and Bernice Crowley on Sept. 23, 1937, in Chromo, Colo., on the Crowley ranch his grandfather, Pet C. Crowley, had homesteaded. For those who knew Russell, he loved telling stories, especially about his fondest memories. Here are a few of his favorites. Russell grew up in a time and place where cowboys, cattle drives and open ranges still existed. Some of his fondest memories from childhood included driving cattle from Chromo to the train station in Chama, N.M., to be sold at the Denver stockyards; wintering cattle at the Ghost Ranch in New Mexico; and living, exploring and learning at all the different ranches his father worked at in New Mexico, Arizona and Colorado during his youth. Later in his young life, after being in 4-H for steers for many years, he decided he wanted to learn about electricity. He was able to convince Frank Oppenheimer, who lived in the Blanco Basin, to become his 4-H leader. Frank taught him in a way that Russell loved. He soaked up every bit of information. He later joined the Navy and was stationed on the USS Los Angeles. He enjoyed his stint in the Navy. He was responsible for the radar units and loved a good challenge. But what he really enjoyed was stopping in every city he had shore leave for to go and experience the local cuisine and culture. He would go to a local eatery and ask the waitstaff to bring their favorite menu item to enjoy. After the Navy, he returned to the Crowley ranch in Chromo, doing what he loved. He was so fond of learning and applying new ideas to his ranch life. He met his future bride, Roberta Sandefer, while learning welding from a family friend in Texas. Every man is entitled to three things in life — one good dog, one good horse and one good woman. Russell often mentioned this quote often, as he felt blessed to have all three plus so much more. He is survived by siblings Carolyn and Harvey; his daughter, Kim (Dwayne Kinion); nieces and nephews Shawn, Tami (Tom Nothstine), Teryl, Jodi and David; and several cousins. There will be no services per his request except for a private memorial with family/close friends at a later date.
Dad, I want to thank you for the best childhood a kid could ask for. I was so lucky to grow up in the world you and Mom created for me. I never wanted for anything, and learned so much from you. I will miss you ‘til my last day on Earth. Rest easy and rejoice at being reunited with Mom, your friends and family.
